This research has demonstrated the fundamental importance of a good start in life. In order to translate this knowledge from research into policy and practice, I work on the national and international level advocating for investments in a good start in life. I strongly believe such investments will accelerate progress in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
By teaching students, professionals and (future) parents I share knowledge and increase awareness about the fundamental importance of a good start in life. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to giving each child the best possible start in life to allow it to develop to its full potential in order to create a healthier more equal future for all.
What are the consequences of exposures in early life?
Which interventions and policies are effective in optimizing individuals’ chances of developing to their full potential.
How to optimally communicate this knowledge to stakeholders (future parents, professionals and policymakers).
Therefore, teaching is an essential part of my mission to increase awareness about the importance of a good start in life to the following groups:current and future children, students, parents and professionals
• Current and future children
• Students
• Parents
• Professionals
Dutch famine study: What are the effects of prenatal famine exposure?
WOMB project: Does lifestyle support improve maternal and child health?
Does induction of labour affect child development and health?
Does hyperemesis gravidarum affect maternal and child health?
Project: DOHaD and SDGs: Moving towards Early Implementation.
Studies into long term consequences of hyperemesis gravidarum. (Dutch)
The important role of fathers in the first 1000 days of life.
Advocating for a good start at Eva Jinek's talkshow on national TV (NPO).
Animation demonstrating the wonders of the first 1000 days.
First 1000 days crucial for rest of life. Editorial TV item on RTL Nieuws (Dutch).
Campaign to support parents in the first 1000 days
National coalition: Ambassadors of a good start.
Dutch government program 'Kansrijke Start' (Promising Start).
Proposed Ministry of Healthy Generations and Gender Equality.
TED talk: A Healthier Future by Investing in the best Start in Life.
Why we need upstream approaches to prevent domestic violence.
The first 1000 days and COVID (Newspaper article in Dutch, paywall)
Journalistic article in De Correspondent (Dutch): How poverty reduces your potential.
Book (Dutch): Gelijk Goed Beginnen (Get off to a Good Start)
Book (Dutch): De Eerste 1000 Dagen (The First 1000 Days)
Book (Dutch): Baby's van de Hongerwinter (Baby’s of the Dutch Famine)
Gender equality as foundations for health
Article in the Dutch newspaper NRC Handelsblad (paywall): The importance of the first 1000 days